I'm sure you would agree that there's just so much information out there. You scroll through social media posts, which can lead to inspiration; yet often ends up leaving you with mixed emotions.
If you've felt overwhelmed and even a little frustrated after seeing so many ways of interacting with horses, you're not alone.
Did you know that you already have one of the best, most powerful tools in your possession, to help you with making decisions about your horse journey?
It's true!
It's your own inner guidance system.
You know, it could be those little gut feelings, whispers in your ear, or if you're like me, very strong feelings to stop what I'm doing, slow way down, and write out some thoughts to process what messages I need to focus on. Yes, it's like our very own built-in voicemail system from the Universe!
If you don't already have a way to tap into this powerful means of finding answers, I'd love to invite you to try out these simple, yet powerful routines:
Equestrians are often on a quest to improve their horses and their riding abilities. They take countless lessons, go to clinics, and read as many ‘top ten tips’ blogs as their eyes can scan in one sitting.
Riding horses well requires more mental focus than most people realize. We become detective-like when it comes to how the tack should fit, what kind of food protocol your horse should be on, which lateral work to play with, or how often to go out on a hack.
The truly committed riders are always thinking, deciding on the best course of action, and are willing to make shifts accordingly.
Let’s allow one of the greatest (although fictional) detectives to give us some insights. And yes, this is another ‘top tips’ blog, but we'll just go with five today (not 10).
All quotes are of course by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle:
When you focus on the tiniest details of...
How often have you heard your instructor say, 'let's do that exercise one more time'?
While repetition is useful in most cases, it's really important to know when you and your horse should find a happy stopping point in your ride.
Many riders trust their instructor to make the decision to end the session for them, but what if you have a voice inside of you that says, you know what, that was good enough and I think I've reached my capacity for learning for today.
Are you able to voice your opinion in those instances? If it feels uncomfortable to say it out loud, just let your instructor know that you want to focus on quality training and you're concerned that if you push yourself, things might not end well. That should open up a conversation with your instructor, so they can help you figure out when those good moments happen, in order to stop and praise your horse and yourself!
Can you notice when your horse is also feeling like they're telling you they are done?...
Beliefs.
The fabric of reality can have infinite possibilities, depending on what you believe. I’ve
learned that your thoughts, combined with your emotions, can help shape your reality. If you don’t believe this, it’s useful to do your own experiments. Our thoughts, especially our self-talk, have a tremendous influence on how we ride.
Here are some ways to shift your thinking, to honor the process of learning to ride.
If you say, “I’m terrible at getting a canter transition. I always get too tense and rush.”
Say instead, “I’m learning to wait for the right moment to canter. I am open to improving this transition and will do my best to Allow for it to feel better.”
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If you say, “I have such a hard time with my balance. I can’t get my legs to stay steady.”
Say instead, “I am improving my balance in each moment. I am open to feeling steadier.”
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If you say, “I’m nowhere...
On dealing with fear:
A little bit of fear is normal when it comes to riding. If it begins to prevent you from doing the things you love, there are tools to help shift that.
Here are some ideas to assist when fear arises:
I had a biofeedback monitor on my hand and I was watching bubbles go up and down on the screen.
It was incredible to see how my energy shifts could make this happen.
I was enjoying a computer game called "The Wild Divine". It was designed to help you find your still point and then play with bringing your energy levels up and down.
We have that same kind of experience available to us, when we hang out with sensitive horses.
How often have you noticed when you're all over the place with your thoughts, your horse doesn't want to be anywhere near you?
However, when you can get very clear, calm, and focused on exactly what you'd like to dial in for that moment, your horse becomes curious and will often crave being with you.
So how do you cultivate that feeling your horse craves?
The first step: Release unnecessary tension.
If your body is stuck, inspiration/ideas/good feelings will ping or bounce off of you.
If you soften and relax, all that you desire can come and...
There is constant noise and static all around us.
It can be found all around in the media, relationships, daily chores, and even our mind chatter.
What if...
You could get really quiet.
And sit and listen to your breath.
Would you be okay with where you were physically, mentally, and spiritually?
True acceptance begins with taking a deep breath and knowing that where you are right now, in this very moment is completely okay. It might not be a comfortable place... to sit quietly and just be.... however, this is where you can find your most intriguing answers to life.
Acceptance of your entire now moment can help you figure out where you want to go next. If you're being pushed and pulled and flailed about like a nervous horse with a flag chasing you, you won't be able to hear the quiet connection always at the ready to help you.
All you need do is ask. Sit and breathe... and ask yourself, what do I need in this moment?
Accepting where you are in life is key to being...
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Create a powerful bond with your horse in these five simple, yet profound lessons. Your horse will thank you.